Devon and Cornwall Police has improved its performance in many
areas of firearms licensing since the Keyham mass shooting in
2021, though concerns remain over its licences backlog and
improper use of temporary permits, the police inspectorate has
said.
His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue
Services (HMICFRS) was commissioned by the Home Secretary in
April 2023 to undertake an urgent review of the force’s progress
in implementing recommendations made by the Independent Office
for Police Conduct (IOPC) and comments made by the coroner in his
prevention of future deaths report.
Inspectors said Devon and Cornwall Police had made positive
changes in several areas to improve its ability to assess a
person’s suitability to possess firearms, including:
- introducing a new management structure to ensure senior
officers and supervisors are actively involved in the day-to-day
management of the unit;
- investing heavily in its firearms licensing department by
increasing the number of posts; and
- delivering extensive training to officers and staff.
HMICFRS found that the force had implemented four of the five
IOPC recommendations and made substantial progress on the
comments made by the coroner.
The inspectorate explained that the force didn’t agree with the
wording of the outstanding recommendation, which relates to
guidance to evidence review officers. Inspectors said they were
satisfied that the force is entering into constructive dialogue
with the IOPC, putting forward a strong case for its
disagreement.
However, inspectors said they had concerns about the force’s
backlog of applications for licences, which had been caused by
inefficient processes, inadequate IT systems and the force not
taking legitimate opportunities to reduce demand.
HMICFRS also highlighted the force’s inappropriate use of
temporary permits, which should only be used in exceptional
circumstances. It found temporary permits were being used to help
manage volumes, which it said is against statutory guidance and
must stop.
His Majesty’s Inspector of Constabulary Wendy Williams
said:
“The mass shooting in Plymouth was a tragic event. My thoughts
remain with the victims and their families, and everyone in the
local community who was affected.
“Since 2021, Devon and Cornwall Police has made significant
improvements across its firearms licensing department. However,
issues remain with its licences backlog and misuse of temporary
permits. We are pleased the force is in the process of developing
a plan to address these issues.
“The changes the force has made are already making a positive
impact on its performance and will go a long way to further
improving its firearms licensing practices.
“This is absolutely vital to ensure that gun licences are issued
correctly, thereby protecting the public and reducing the risk of
tragic events like the one in Plymouth ever happening again.”
